Health Care in Minnesota: Overview – FAQs

Does my insurance cost more because of my disability?

No. It is illegal for insurance companies to deny you coverage because of a pre-existing condition. It the past you could be turned down because of a disability, a previous illness, a mental health diagnosis, or any number of other pre-existing conditions. Now private insurance companies have to sell the same insurance to everyone, regardless of whether they have pre-existing conditions. They cannot charge someone more for insurance based on health status.

I’ve heard that I have to have health insurance or pay a fine. Do I have to pay a fine if I can’t afford insurance?

No. It is very important to have health coverage, but starting in 2019 there is no tax penalty if you don't have coverage.

Did the ACA create a government-run health insurance system?

No. It is a common misunderstanding that the ACA created a government-run health care system. Actually, the ACA expanded the health care system that was already in place in the United States in order to create a system that makes coverage available to more Americans. The ACA has not drastically changed the structure of our nation’s health care system. You can think of this law as a patchwork solution that creates many patches to cover the gaps, rather than creating a brand new approach.

Did the ACA change my Medicare benefits?

No. If you were already on Medicare before the ACA, your coverage didn't change. You can keep getting your Medicare coverage, and your benefits will stay the same, whether you are on Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage.

If you are just now enrolling in Medicare, you will get the same coverage that everyone else gets.

I have other questions and there is a lot of information out there about health care. Who can I trust to answer my questions?

There is so much information out there, it can be hard to figure out what is correct or how to get your specific questions answered. Here are a few resources that you can count on to provide accurate and up-to-date information.

For general information on health care reform and the ACA, a good place to start is Health Reform Minnesota,the Minnesota government’s main website for information on health care reform.

Private health insurance an individual or family purchases. The individual or family pays a monthly premium and the plan agrees to pay a portion of the cost of approved medical services when needed, like for preventive care, lab tests, surgery, or prescription drugs. The easiest way to purchase an individual plan is through MNsure.

The government may help individuals and families with low to middle income who get their coverage through MNsure pay for their monthly premiums and a portion of the cost of approved medical services.

A state-run health care program that pays medical expenses for people who are disabled, young, elderly, poor, or pregnant. If you meet program requirements, MA will help pay for a variety of medical services including visits to the doctor, hospital stays, medical equipment, home care services, and prescription drugs. To apply for MA, visit your county human services agency.